Cornwall Park Outer Loop

Cornwall Park Outer Loop is a moderately challenging hike located in Auckland. This trail travels around one of Auckland’s largest parks. The hike has a mixture of paved, dirt, and grass trails. This loop is 3 miles long and gains 475 feet of elevation.

Cornwall Park Outer Loop starts from a parking area off of Michael Horton Dr. There are bathrooms and water fountains at the trailhead. Begin hiking north on a paved path. After 0.2 miles, you will turn right and cross Pohutukawa Drive. You will then begin hiking through an active pasture on a dirt trail. It is common to see sheep and cows along the trail. As you walk along the trail, you will have periodic views of One Tree Hill.

After another mile, you will cross Bollard Ave and continue onto another section of pasture. Continue along the southeastern edge of the park for 0.4 miles before crossing Grand Dr. After 0.1 miles, you will turn right and begin hiking uphill. 

Continue uphill for 0.3 miles before crossing Olive Grove. As you gain elevation, you will be able to see Māngere Mountain. After 0.1 miles, you will cross another road and continue on a grass trail. Another 0.5 miles will bring you to the highest point of the trail and close to the top on One Tree Hill. Go left here and begin traveling downhill. After 0.2 miles, you will come to a paved path and turn right. Follow this trail back to the parking area.

Cornwall Park is open for hiking year-round from 7am to 6pm. There are no associated fees to hike here. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Cornwall Park Outer Loop is a wonderful way to experience some natural beauty in the heart of Auckland.